CONTENTS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY...... 2 Finding Solutions ...... 4 Testing for Success ...... 4 A Network of Knowledge ...... 4
BACKGROUND ...... 6 Supporting SMEs to Scale-Up and Generate Jobs Growth...... 7 The “Valley of Death” ...... 8 Barriers to Innovation ...... 10
THE INNOVATION CATALYST...... 12
SERVICE DELIVERY...... 14 Innovation Launchpad ...... 15
INNOVATION LAUNCHPAD PROPOSAL ...... 16 What Will The Innovation Launchpad Offer? ...... 18 Who Can Participate? ...... 18 Technical Readiness Level (TRL) ...... 19 Governance Structure ...... 20 Collaborative Office Space ...... 21 Industrial Innovation Workshop ...... 21
ACCELERATOR PROGRAM...... 24
BUILDING ON OUR STRENGTHS...... 26 The Precinct Model ...... 27 NIER Global Impact Cluster Model (Energy, Resources, Food and Water) ...... 27 NIER Research...... 27
ACHIEVING COLLABORATIVE INNOVATION...... 30 The NSW Energy and Resources Knowledge Hub ...... 31 State-Wide, Regional Reach ...... 32 Mets NSW – Improving Productivity and Efficiency ...... 32 NSW ENERGY Energy NSW – A Sector In Need ...... 33 Partner Organisations ...... 33 & RESOURCES METS NSW – Partners ...... 34 Energy NSW – Partners ...... 34 KNOWLEDGE HUB A Network of Opportunity ...... 35
COST SUMMARY...... 36 Breakdown of Costs...... 37
INNOVATION LAUNCHPAD Conclusion...... 39 Giving SMEs the resources, knowledge, Endorsement ...... 42 networks and infrastructure to transform Appendix: Networks ...... 44 ideas into enterprise .
Innovation Launchpad 3 The NSW Energy and Resources The National Innovation and Knowledge Hub is seeking to Science Agenda Report confirms advance jobs growth in the energy that “innovative firms are more EXECUTIVE SUMMARY and resources sector by providing a competitive, more able to capture collaborative testing facility to foster increased market share and more and commercialise innovation . This likely to increase employment than document outlines the proposal to their competitors . Over the period establish an energy and resources 2006-2011, 1 .4 million new jobs Innovation Launchpad . were created by firms aged less than three years old ”. This will be a physical hub, based within the Newcastle Institute The Innovation Launchpad will for Energy and Resources (NIER) help innovative SMEs overcome Precinct at the University of some of the common barriers to Newcastle Callaghan campus, commercialisation, and provide where businesses and researchers an enduring solution for the can collaborate throughout the NSW economy . solution design, validation and deployment phases, to bring tried and tested new products to market .
The NSW Energy and Resources Knowledge Hub acknowledges that more meaningful relationships between industry and researchers, and the formation of strong partnerships can drive innovation, accelerate technology to market and promote jobs growth .
Innovation Launchpad 5 The Innovation Launchpad will facilitate the sharing of resources, infrastructure and knowledge to solve problems, optimise operating practices, break new ground and improve global competitiveness and export potential .
The benefit goes beyond supporting businesses; it puts new technologies and services into the market to increase enterprise and create jobs for NSW .
FINDING SOLUTIONS The dedicated research and technology space will embed businesses in a research environment to facilitate problem solving through best practice industry/academic engagement .
TESTING FOR SUCCESS Access to pilot scale testing infrastructure is crucial for SMEs to be able to test, validate and demonstrate their innovation . The Innovation Launchpad will give SMEs the keys to valuable testing facilities not often accessible on the pathway to commercialisation .
A NETWORK OF KNOWLEDGE Participants will benefit from knowledge exchange and structured programs across a multidisciplinary network of expertise, allowing for swift navigation of challenging business issues relating to IP, commercialisation and exporting .
This is an invitation to contribute to the economic growth of NSW by supporting SMEs to innovate, commercialise and scale-up their businesses through improved industry/academic linkages, purpose built industrial testing facilities and accelerated technology transfer.
Aerial photo of the Newcastle Institute for Energy and Resources precinct at the University of Newcastle Callaghan Campus
6 NSW Energy & Resources Knowledge Hub Innovation Launchpad 7 SMEs can lack the financial strength and scale to access the same opportunities and support networks of big business, and yet their success contributes significantly to the innovation system by introducing new products and adapting existing products to the needs of customers .
“Over the decade from 2001 to 2011, SMEs aged less than five years employed only around 15 per cent of the Australian workforce, but made the highest contribution (40 per cent) to net job creation in Australia.”
~ National Innovation and Science Agenda Report, 2015.
SUPPORTING SMES TO SCALE-UP AND GENERATE JOBS GROWTH It is widely acknowledged that start-ups are important for job creation, economic growth BACKGROUND and innovation activity in Australia, and yet ongoing success for startups is the exception not the rule . Very few start-ups create long lasting jobs or long term social benefits, with an In 2014, the NSW Government launched The NSW Energy and estimated 97 per cent of startups failing to grow and exiting the market . Resources Knowledge Hub to bring together businesses, research organisations, government and industry associations to enable greater collaboration and maximise opportunities for sector growth . “Competitive advantage doesn’t go to the nations that focus on creating Since then, the Hub has been creating shared value through joint companies, it goes to nations that focus on scaling companies.” activities with particular emphasis on knowledge transfer and collaborative projects that support regional SMEs . ~ Sherry Coutu, Cambridge University (Finance Board).
Of those who make it beyond their first two years, 77 per cent of all economic benefits are created by the three per cent that become high-growth firms . (Professor Colin McLeod, the University of Melbourne .) The Australian Department of Innovation, Industry and Science found that high-growth firms (HGFs) are job creators, contributing a disproportionate amount to FTE growth . Identifying and supporting these high-growth companies can underpin significant industrial transformation and growth .
“Turnover HGFs between 2002 and 2013 contributed 27.6 per cent to FTE employment growth compared to just 0.1 per cent from non-HGFs.”
~ Department of Industry, Innovation and Science.
HGFs, also known as scale-ups, are companies with ten or more people and an average annual growth in employees greater than 20 per cent over a three-year period . Targeting scale-ups can have a dramatic impact on economic growth .
Innovation Launchpad 9 “Only nine per cent of Australian small to medium sized businesses brought a new idea to market in 2012-2013, compared to 19 per cent in the top five OECD countries.”
~ National Innovation and Science Agenda Report 2015.
THE “VALLEY OF DEATH” The “Valley of Death” refers to the void in the innovation cycle that commonly occurs between an idea and a commercial outcome . This tends to halt innovation between the proof of concept milestone and commercialisation, contributing to Australia’s poor record for commercialising new technologies .
Net Cash Flow VALLEY OF DEATH
Basic Research Applied Proof of Working Product Research Concept Prototypes Introduction Engineering Target Market Founding Team Prototypes
Business Plan Supplier Production Revenue Contracts Prototypes Growth
Image courtesy: http://www.starnetllc.net
10 NSW Energy & Resources Knowledge Hub Innovation Launchpad 11 BARRIERS TO INNOVATION Inadequate Market Knowledge Through engagement with industry and collaboration with partners, the NSW Energy • The market is rapidly evolving and contemporary, flexible business models are and Resources Knowledge Hub has identified some common barriers to innovation and needed . But the pathway to market can be complex, and SMEs often lack the business growth, which should be addressed if we are to support the scale-up of SMEs . experience and business know-how to move their businesses to commercialisation .
Lack of Collaboration • Successful innovation relies on a culture that encourages and is conducive to “Innovation systems for all sectors find the transfer of new ideas and collaborative effort and cross-fertilisation of information within and across sectors . technologies into business a challenging process. Developing innovations However, collaboration is not often ingrained in the culture for companies in that combine step-change technology with business knowledge and highly competitive industries such as energy and resources . The lack of involvement commercial imperatives is a difficult process that requires expertise, the in collaborative activities by SMEs can hinder the ability of the energy and resources right partners, market knowledge and customer pull.” sector to respond holistically to the demand for new technologies and services . ~ METS Ignited “A living Labs Network for METS and Mining.”
“Businesses that collaborate on innovation with research organisations are three times more likely to experience productivity growth. Despite these Financial Barriers benefits, Australia’s rate of collaboration between industry and researchers Limited accessibility of external funding for new ventures, especially during the working (at two to three per cent) is currently the lowest in the OECD.” prototype phase can set up financial barriers for SMEs . The working prototype phase is identified as high cost but critical in proving to potential customers the validity of the ~ National Innovation and Science Agenda Report 2015. innovative product .
From an investor perspective, there is not a sufficiently large local pipeline of upcoming investment opportunities to spread investment risk and justify the investment of funds, nor the time and resources to research potential opportunities . Limited Access to Testing Infrastructure • There is a break in the innovation cycle that occurs when organisations cannot access industrial scale facilities to test their technology, de-risk their product and take it to Regulatory Barriers commercialisation . In a rapidly changing technology environment, out of date or unresponsive regulation can hold back new or untried innovations from the market place .
“The METS Ignited sector consultation process and the 2015 Austmine National Survey revealed that innovators find the mining sector “risk averse” and reluctant to disrupt operations to trial or introduce new systems or approaches. Further, innovators experience difficulty in accessing operational sites for gathering data, testing, and demonstrating outcomes… In response, mining companies have advised that they are not risk averse but rather are reluctant to introduce innovations without sound evidence of benefits and minimisation of operational and HSEC risks.”
~ Mets Ignited Living Lab Consultation Briefing 2016.
12 NSW Energy & Resources Knowledge Hub Innovation Launchpad 13 THE NSW ENERGY AND RESOURCES KNOWLEDGE HUB’S INNOVATION LAUNCHPAD WILL OFFER: THE INNOVATION
CATALYST A SPACE FOR COLLABORATION • To facilitate best practice industry/academic engagement Providing solutions, testing facilities and market knowledge to help • To embed businesses in the research environment SMEs overcome barriers to innovation . • To activate solutions .
AN INDUSTRIAL SCALE WORKSHOP
• To test, pilot and demonstrate • Providing a valuable asset often missing on the pathway to commercialisation • To attract potential investors by showcasing working prototypes in a high profile environment .
ACCESS TO A COMMUNITY OF EXPERTISE
• To make contact with a multidisciplinary network with associated programs, mentors and support networks • Facilitiating increased visibility with potential investors • Simplifying regulatory matters through access to state programs, with the opportunity to inform the development of the national regulatory framework .
Innovation Launchpad 15 NIER/Global Impact Cluster SERVICE DELIVERY Energy, Resources Food & Water Accelerator programs NSW Energy & Resources The Innovation Launchpad will provide a tangible solution to Knowledge Hub some of the biggest challenges facing industrial innovation, with real value being drawn from the multidisciplinary, multifaceted, engaged network of partners, programs and experts working together to transform the industry . Professional training & INNOVATION Partner research education LAUNCHPAD organisations
Advanced METS University research training centre programs
Boost program/innovation & entrepeneurship initiatives
Innovation Launchpad 17 The NSW Energy and Resources Knowledge Hub, with full support from NIER and the University of Newcastle proposes to build and host an Innovation Launchpad at the NIER precinct in Callaghan . Designed to drive an industry innovation competitiveness agenda, this facility will give participants access to:
COLLABORATIVE WORKSPACES
The refurbishment of Level 9 at the University of Newcastle’s NIER will embed business enterprise in the research environment to support best-practice industry/academic engagement.
INDUSTRIAL SCALE WORKSHOPS
An industrial workshop will provide Australian enterprise with a valuable INNOVATION LAUNCHPAD asset often missing on the pathway to commercialisation of new technologies or services: access to industrial scale laboratories and research infrastructure to test, pilot and demonstrate innovation to market.
PROPOSAL COMMUNITY
Supporting SMEs to scale up by providing access to the resources and The power of the The NSW Energy and Resources Knowledge Hub is in its knowledge required to address technological, business and market challenges multidisciplinary network which gives SMEs unprecedented access to associated with the transition of the energy and resources industries . research and industry expertise, training and education opportunities, operational and testing assets, and business know-how.
Innovation Launchpad 19 WHAT WILL THE INNOVATION LAUNCHPAD OFFER? TECHNICAL READINESS LEVEL (TRL) • The opportunity to engage with researchers in best practice industry/academic The TRL is a globally accepted benchmarking tool for tracking progress and supporting collaboration development of a specific technology through the early stages of the innovation chain . • Access to an industrial workshop and industrial research infrastructure to test, pilot A TRL of six and above is for technology in the “Demonstration” phase, and includes: and demonstrate innovation to market • Modern office space including a desk, high speed internet and access to meeting • TRL 6 – System/subsystem model or prototyping demonstration in a relevant end-to- facilities end environment . • Multidisciplinary collaborative opportunities • TRL 7 - System prototyping demonstration in an operational environment • Access to business expertise and knowledge with the opportunity to tap into larger, • TRL 8 - Actual system completed and qualified through test and demonstration in an stronger networks and programs across the energy and resources sector operational environment, and • A safe working and testing environment • TRL 9 - Actual system proven through successful operations • Mentorship in the commercialisation of business plans • The next stage is the “Commercial Readiness Phase,” and deployment . • Industry and market insight .
WHO CAN PARTICIPATE? System Test, Launch & Operations Commercialisation Businesses that:
• Are registered in NSW and developing or delivering a product or service for the Extended operation of production hardware energy and resources sector System/Subsystem Development • Are able to show impact to industry and the potential for jobs growth
• Have a concept or product that requires testing in an industrial workshop Demonstration of pre production hardware
• Can demonstrate a Technical Readiness Level of six and above .
Technology Demonstration Prototype demonstration (“looks like” hardware)
Breadboard demonstration (“acts like hardware”)
Technology Development
Proof of concept validation (integrating components)
Research to Prove Feasibility Proof of concept research (bench scale)
Academic Research
Basic Technology Research
Example TRL scale. The TRL methodology was developed by NASA in 1974 with its use evolving for broad modern day applications and industries.
The TRL scale will form the basis of the Innovation Launchpad program, with participants and partners working together to move through the TRL phases and into commercialisation .
20 NSW Energy & Resources Knowledge Hub Innovation Launchpad 21 GOVERNANCE STRUCTURE COLLABORATIVE OFFICE SPACE The Innovation Launchpad will operate under an efficient governance structure The University of Newcastle has committed to the refurbishment and development of the administered by the existing framework of the NIER/Global Impact Cluster (Energy, complete floorspace of Level 9 in the NIER Administrative building . NIER is located on Resources, Food and Water) Advisory Board and The NSW Energy and Resources the Callaghan campus of the University of Newcastle, which has a wonderful mix of award Knowledge Hub Steering Committee . The addition of the Participants Committee will winning, architecturally designed buildings and world-class infrastructure scattered over support productivity by enabling a process for those involved in the program to raise and 140 hectares of natural bushland . rectify issues easily . The refurbishment of Level 9 will upgrade the current office space to host additional office accommodation, meeting facilities and amenities to cater for the increasing industry partnerships and collaborative research initiatives being undertaken as part of • Existing NIER Advisory Board the Innovation Launchpad . This will provide an open plan/flexible office area to maximise ADVISORY • Representatives of key industry areas associated with space usage and provide quiet spaces, foyer entry, informal meeting and breakout spaces the core agenda of energy and resources growth and additional amenities . This will be a shared, co-working space for a range of agencies BOARD • Provide strategic direction and leadership for the and energy and resources SMEs . Innovation Launchpad, including assistance to attract strategic funding • Advise and counsel on strategy and planning in context of current and projected policy and industry trends, needs and issues • Provide access to national and global networks to support an industry engagement strategy • Facilitate partnerships with industry .
• Existing NSW Energy and Resources Knowledge Hub STEERING Steering Committee • Made up Executive Director NIER, Hub Coordinator, COMMITTEE representatives from NSW Government, Energy and Resources Growth Centres, and industry • Represent key stakeholders in the effective management of the Innovation Launchpad • Advise on associated infrastructure activities including space management, utilisation and expansion projects • Manage operational issues • Align activities with objectives of The NSW Energy and Resources Knowledge Hub, NSW Government, Growth Centres etc . New floorplan for NIER Level 9 showing the refurbished office and collaboration space
INDUSTRIAL INNOVATION WORKSHOP • Made up of business representatives operating out of NIER is comprised of purpose-built research facilities in a state-of-the-art research precinct PARTICIPANTS the Innovaiton Launchpad including extensive mineral, chemical and related technical laboratories, workshops, • A formal avenue for communication offices and five industrial-scale pilot plant workshops . COMMITTEE • Identify opportunities and issues • Provide leadership for knoweldge sharing activities Participants of the Innovation Launchpad will have access to a purpose built industrial- • Provide recommendations around research scale test plant workshop . collaboration and synergy .
22 NSW Energy & Resources Knowledge Hub Innovation Launchpad 23 BUILDING SPECIFICATIONS • Heavy industrial building, large span portal frame • Wind rating: N2 standard • Length: 50 .0 metres (8 x 6 .25m bays) • Span: 30 .0 metres • Height: 7 .0 metres • Roof: steel roof sheet (Colorbond) and insulation • Walls: steel wall cladding (Colorbond) • Doors: large opening steel Roller door • Small control room and amenities • Features: Overhead gantry crane (10t) .
Workshop Site in the NIER Precinct
Site Survey
24 NSW Energy & Resources Knowledge Hub Innovation Launchpad 25 The Innovation Launchpad will provide the platform for scale-ups to access structured programs to accelerate their growth . There is the opportunity to include a structured accelerator program as part of the Innovation Launchpad, to provide businesses a one day per week/12 week mentorship program to fast-track growth and innovation .
As an example, for METS firms, this accelerator could be part of the METS Ignited initiative to roll out METS Accelerators nationally .
Igniting METS – Background
METS Ignited is currently running a pilot METS Accelerator in Queensland that will be rolled out nationally in 2018. METS Ignited is an industry-led organisation funded by the Australian Government as part of its Growth Centre Initiative. “Igniting METS” is an Australian first joint initiative between METS Ignited and the Queensland Government to assist METS ACCELERATOR companies.
This accelerator program seeks to bring late-stage start-ups and SMEs together with leading mining sector corporates focused on innovative PROGRAM mining sector solutions, to drive greater industry collaboration and commercialisation outcomes across exploration, planning, production, An embedded program to fast track business growth and drive innovation . environmental and social innovations.
The successful startup/SME applicants will be fast-tracked through an intensive 12 week program (commencing in mid-July) of deep dive workshops, and mentoring and engagement with industry leaders, entrepreneurs and subject matter experts from Australia and internationally.
The program provides:
• Brand credibility • Business advice and mentoring • Customer discovery with client relationships across the Australian METS & Mining sector • Access to capital • $10,000 in sponsorship .
Innovation Launchpad 27 THE PRECINCT MODEL Precincts provide the opportunity to bring together the breadth of resources required and the level of specialisation demanded to solve particular societal challenges . (The role of precincts in innovation systems – A discussion paper Dr Terry Cutler, January 2009 .)
Hosting the Innovation Launchpad at NIER will embed businesses in a specialised energy and resources research and technology precinct, designed to advance industrial innovation by connecting experts on common ground to facilitate the exchange of ideas, solutions and discovery .
NIER GLOBAL IMPACT CLUSTER MODEL (ENERGY, RESOURCES, FOOD AND WATER) NIER was established to augment the University of Newcastle’s existing reputation of research excellence and expertise within the minerals, energy and resources fields . NIER is located on a 3 .8 hectare site adjacent to the University’s Callaghan campus, comprising BUILDING ON OUR extensive research laboratories, offices and industrial-scale pilot plant workshops .
NIER addresses challenges of the rapidly emerging issues of resource sustainability, STRENGTHS productivity and competitiveness associated with energy and resources infrastructure .
Leveraging the assets of an unrivaled energy and resources cluster . NIER RESEARCH IS FOCUSED UNDER FOUR KEY PILLARS:
RESOURCE PRODUCTIVITY AND EFFICIENCY
- Solutions to important problems facing our minerals, gas and water resource sectors .
ENERGY TECHNOLOGIES AND UTILISATION
- Driven by economic and environmental challenges with the goal of increasing productivity and efficiency and reducing greenhouse gases .
ADVANCED MATERIALS FOR ENERGY APPLICATIONS
- Significant potential for the next generation of low cost, sustainable energy applications .
LAND USE, SOCIAL IMPACTS AND SUSTAINABILITY
Focused on the balance between environment, community and economic activity within energy and resource intensive regions .
Innovation Launchpad 29 In March 2017, the NIER model expanded with the launch of the Global Impact Cluster for Energy, Resources, Food and Water (GIC ERFW) to support focused industry engagement, METS EXPERTISE transdisciplinary research collaboration and commercial output . The NIER precinct is a showcase of Mining Equipment, Technology and Services (METS) development, housing leading METS innovators across all aspects of the The additional critical areas of water and agribusiness expand the NIER research agenda mining value chain . to tackle important challenges facing these sectors . NIER’s research leaders work closely with the mining industry to provide innovative The GIC model offers a mechanism to enhance the learning experience through unique solutions for optimisation, efficiency, productivity and sustainability, with expertise in undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral training programs and centres . minerals processing and transport, bulk materials handling, technologies and services .
The NIER/GIC ERFW framework enables a comprehensive service model that delivers the opportunities, infrastructure, professional development, advice and industry networks required to ensure transformative interdisciplinary collaborations and a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship .
GLOBAL IMPACT CLUSTER MODEL
Business & Partner Government Community TUNRA Industry Universities
30 NSW Energy & Resources Knowledge Hub Innovation Launchpad 31 THE NSW ENERGY AND RESOURCES KNOWLEDGE HUB In 2014, NIER won the bid to host the NSW Energy and Resources Knowledge Hub (the Hub) . The Knowledge Hubs are a NSW Government initiative established from a NSW Industry Action Plan identifying collaborative innovation as a key industry priority . This formed the basis for the NSW Economic Development Framework, which led to the establishment of five Knowledge Hubs in 2014 .
ACHIEVING COLLABORATIVE INNOVATION
Delivering programs to promote collaboration, drive innovation and boost competitiveness for the energy and resources sector . The Knowledge Hubs are industry-led collaborative partnerships centered on key NSW industry sectors . The Hubs support industry by providing:
• Co-funding for collaborative projects that drive innovation and productivity • Greater access to business support, development and advisory services • Facilitation in developing strategic relations and creating shared value through effective, sustainable partnerships between industry, researchers and government .
The Hub is guided by a Steering Committee who help develop important initiatives for the Hub in the energy & resources sector .
Since its launch, the Hub has played an important role in facilitating collaborative activities to promote innovative new technologies and services, including:
• The development of the Hunter Energy transition Alliance to help identify future jobs and opportunities for new energy investment for the Hunter region, and address the local impact and opportunity of the transitioning energy sector • Supporting the development of the Australian Energy Storage Database, an information sharing and networking platform to promote the wide range of existing and emerging energy storage solutions available in Australia • Production of an Energy Technologies Showcase video focusing on the outcomes of research collaborations in new energy technology development • The formation of METS NSW; a networked platform to increase collaboration and
Innovation Launchpad 33 accelerate innovation to help the NSW Mining Equipment, Technology and Services economy reach its full potential . Activity under METS NSW includes the Regional Supply Chain Roadshow and the Growing METS Matters Regional Forums, and an online interactive capability map of the sector • The creation of Energy NSW to boost the innovation investment of SMEs in the Energy sector by providing new tools and services to enable Australian businesses to invest, create export opportunities, innovate and grow .
STATE-WIDE, REGIONAL REACH ENERGY NSW – A SECTOR IN NEED The Hub is focused on growing NSW businesses by connecting them to a strong, All economic activity across NSW is reliant on cost effective energy supply and the related powerful, state-wide network that gives SMEs the support and resources needed to thrive efficiency technologies and services . With key mining, manufacturing and transport in their local region, and be competitive in global markets . sectors, NSW is the highest consumer of energy in Australia (2013 Australian Energy Statistics, BREE) demonstrating demand from within the state for efficiency technologies The Hub seeks to break down geographical barriers to collaboration and innovation, and services . to help businesses link in, collaborate, and share information and resources to find economical solutions that will promote business growth . Energy NSW was established by the Hub to support the Energy Equipment, Technology and Services sector for NSW . It shares information and knowledge, and supports energy businesses to navigate a complex and changing environment .
Energy supply and energy efficiency technologies and services facilitate or enable almost all economic activity. As a result, new energy technology and service solutions have the potential to significantly transform the NSW economy. METS NSW – IMPROVING PRODUCTIVITY AND EFFICIENCY A platform of the Hub, METS NSW operates as a key collaborator with national and international industry partners and research institutions . On 16 June 2017, the Hub hosted the Energy NSW Industry Forum at NIER, with participants from energy businesses in renewables and new energy technologies, METS NSW is supporting and strengthening the agility of the METS sector by offering easy government, industry bodies and research institutions . opportunities for collaboration and knowledge transfer, and by working with businesses and researchers to identify and respond to new markets . A facilitated discussion between forum participants identified the need for an incubator program to capture and support SMEs . It was recommended that such an incubator would METS NSW dedicated programs focus on: identify skills gaps and provide skills development, specifically noting the need for early business development to have regional reach . • METS specific industry support • The expansion of SMEs in new markets • Building stronger links between METS businesses and their end users – mining PARTNER ORGANISATIONS companies and energy resource providers Industrial-academic research partnerships are an important part of innovation . Businesses • Knowledge sharing and research are able to get their products to market faster by forming partnerships with universities, • Tools and services to support businesses to innovate and grow . while the industry gains expertise in areas they most need it .
Working with the academic community exposes industry to the most advanced technical thinking, new research trends, and novel experimental techniques . Discussions with The power of METS NSW is in the collaborative model that drives academic scientists can provide a way to test the validity of certain directions and ways advancement by sharing strengths and leveraging off existing METS of thinking . These partnerships can challenge beliefs and conclusions, and make the expertise. innovation process more straightforward .
The Hub works collaboratively with industry, government and research to facilitate the development of innovative solutions to real-world problems .
34 NSW Energy & Resources Knowledge Hub Innovation Launchpad 35 METS NSW — PARTNERS A NETWORK OF OPPORTUNITY Access to a network of partner expertise, initiatives and support programs is part of the Innovation Launchpad package for participants . Some key opportunities for collaborations include:
• University Research Programs - With high quality research performance in health and medicine, science and engineering, and energy and the environment, the University of Newcastle has attracted some of the very best researchers in the world, providing an important platform for the development of critical mass and future growth of these key research fields
• Boost Program / Innovation Entrepreneurship Initiatives - The University of Newcastle is one of 12 delivery partners for the Boost Program, a $12m NSW Government initiative aiming to accelerate innovation in NSW by supporting greater collaboration between NSW research organisations and their business communities . This program is helping to unlock access to technology, equipment, research and expertise to build an innovation ecosystem and stimulate economic growth right across NSW
• Integrated Innovation Networks (I2N) - The University of Newcastle is continuing its long-term strategic commitment to the growth and development of the Hunter region by expanding its ability to foster regional SMEs and startups and create innovation clusters across NSW
ENERGY NSW – PARTNERS • Other Delivery Partners – Advantage SME based out of the University of Wollongong is helping to transform university research results into successful new products, services and capabilities
• Advanced METS Training Centre – There are emerging skills and technology challenges within the METS sector that require educated, innovative and motivated engineers of the future . The METS Training Centre, hosted at NIER, aims to develop industry engaged research leaders to support industry partners focused on key emerging opportunities for METS technologies .
• Professional Training and Research Education – NIER will deliver Education Programs and industrial engagement to ensure critical interaction between industry and research, providing sought after skillsets across a wide range of transforming employment sectors . This will involve working collaboratively with university departments, schools, faculties and research groups to develop and implement interdisciplinary, industry-relevant professional and postgraduate education programs through engagement with academics and industry
36 NSW Energy & Resources Knowledge Hub Innovation Launchpad 37 BREAKDOWN OF COSTS
REQUIREMENT CAPITAL ONGOING SPEND SPEND REFURBISHMENT OF NIER LEVEL 9 FUNDED BY UON Staff Costs HEW 7 Coordinator ($94,839 x 5 Years) $474,195 Cost of Build Refurbishment to provide office accommodation for industry partners $2,000,000 SUB-TOTAL $2,000,000 $474,195 TOTAL $2,474,195 FUNDING REQUIRED $0
INNOVATION LAUNCHPAD HEW 5 Administrator ($76,400 x 5 years) $382,000 COST SUMMARY Cost of Build Preliminaries and overheads $330,000 Site security fencing $20,000 Site clearing $35,000 Earthworks $165,000 Retaining wall - blockwall $86,000 Drainage and sub-base $95,000 Reinforced concrete pavement $230,000 Landscape $85,000 Services connection $50,000 Heavy industrial building, large span portal frame Size 50L x 30W (m), 7m height Roof and walls Colorbond cladding Large opening steel roller doors Reinforced concrete slab $1,425,000 $55,000 Overhead gantry crane (10t) $180,000 Consultant engineering design (8%) $175,000 Design contingency (10%) $220,000 Construction contingency (7 .5%) $165,000 SUB-TOTAL $3,316,000 $382,000 TOTAL $3,698,000 FUNDING REQUIRED $3,698,000
ACCELERATOR PROGRAM Incremental startup recruitment, training, mentoring and administration $100,000 For the cohort ($10,000 x 10 startups) $100,000 Travel (25-30 individuals interstate once/twice for the demonstration day) $50,000 TOTAL $250,000 FUNDING REQUIRED $250,000
Total required funds to build and coordinate the Innovation Launchpad with embedded Accelerator for five years = $3,948,000
Innovation Launchpad 39 CONCLUSION This proposal from the NSW Energy and Resources Knowledge Hub, with support from NIER and the University of Newcastle, is to seek the funding required to build and coordinate an Innovation Launchpad, with an embedded METS Accelerator .
This dedicated research and technology facility will give SMEs the resources, knowledge, networks and infrastructure to transform ideas into enterprise .
This proposal is an acknowledgment of the need to provide Australian innovators with an asset to overcome common barriers to innovation and support them to achieve their commercialisation objectives .
The anticipated impact is increased innovation activity for the energy and resources sector, with improved business benefits leading to competitive advantage and jobs growth for NSW .
In submitting this proposal we recognise the importance of effective state, national and international engagement between government, industry and research, and the need to focus on rapid deployment and facilitation of outcomes to ensure a strong future for the energy and resources sector, and Australia’s economy .
40 NSW Energy & Resources Knowledge Hub Innovation Launchpad 41 CASE STUDY EXPLORING THE POTENTIAL WITH EXISTING SUCCESS: EVOCRA WATER SOLUTIONS EVOLVED
As an emerging water treatment company focused on remediating industrial wastewater, the Evocra patent technology was originally applied to remediate acid mine drainage . It has since demonstrated increasing potential more broadly within the mining and minerals processing sector, as well as across other sectors .
Within 12 months of being hosted at NIER, Evocra achieved their first commercialisation opportunity and their staffing needs have since doubled . Evocra now has a Tier 1 client, partnerships with two international engineering firms, and have turned their business thinking from focusing on “Proof of Concept” to “Planning for Success ”.
Evocra was nominated as a finalist for the 2017 Australian Technologies Competition Cleantech Award for Technologies .
Evocra cites the collaborative framework of the NIER engagement model to be integral in:
• Validating their technology
• Hosting their demonstration plant, enabling them to conduct trials and test
• Assessing the potential need by industry for their technology
• Framing the competitive landscape of comparative/competing technologies
• Engaging in the optimisation of their treatment process
• Providing research and review on the development of new applications and technologies
• Creating pathways to industry and opportunities
• Supporting their engagement with international engineering firms, and
• Mentoring Evocra in the commercialisation of their business plan .
42 NSW Energy & Resources Knowledge Hub Innovation Launchpad 43
ENDORSEMENT The NSW Energy and Resources Knowledge Hub proposal to build and coordinate an Innovation Launchpad facility at NIER has been endorsed by the following organisations:
“As Australia’s leading industry body supporting the Mining Equipment, “Our support is based on firsthand experience of the benefit a collaborative Technology and Services sector, Austmine supports the Innovation framework can unlock with NIER as a host and supporting partner. We Launchpad and its aim to help the energy and resources sector to grow by achieved our first commercialisation opportunity within 12 months of being facilitating targeted opportunities for collaboration and problem solving. hosted at NIER and have since doubled our staffing needs.” Giving SMEs access to pilot scale testing and demonstration infrastructure ~ Mark Sykes, CEO, Evocra PTY LTD. will fill an essential need as they navigate the path to commercialisation.” ~ Christine Gibbs Stewart, CEO, Austmine.
“This is a valuable program in delivering opportunity for greater collaboration, research and outcomes across the region.The Innovation “We believe that this initiative will be highly productive and lead to Launchpad will provide SMEs with access to important testing processes on significant benefits for the energy and resources sector, and Australia’s their journey to commercialisation. The Chamber is delighted to support this competitiveness.” initiative aimed at growing success in the Hunter,” ~ Michael Ulph, Market Leader Environment, Senior Communications ~ Bob Hawes, CEO, Hunter Business Chamber. Specialist, GHD.
“The launchpad would be very useful for providing support services for development and testing of new energy storage and energy management technologies in NSW. It would also enable some collaboration with services in the energy generation and supply areas, which are often difficult to access by enterprises in pilot demonstration mode.” ~ Mary Hendriks, Industry Executive, Australian Energy Storage Alliance.
“This project will play an important role in continuing to grow and inspire our members by bringing new technologies and services to market, and providing training and education pathways needed for a thriving sector.” ~ Wayne Diemar, Project Director, Hunternet.
44 NSW Energy & Resources Knowledge Hub Innovation Launchpad 45 APPENDIX: NETWORKS The NSW Energy and Resources Knowledge Hub and NIER are strengthening their domestic and international networks, and acknowledge their partnerships and associations with the following organisations:
NSW Minerals Council METS Ignited Muswellbrook Shire Council Minerals Council of Australia University of Sydney Business Growth Centre BHP Energy Change Institute Energy Efficiency Council Glencore BASF Anglo Platinum Centennial Coal Orica Galaxy Resources The Bloomfield Group Forgacs Tata Steel (coal and barite) AMIRA Varley Curragh Westfarmers FLSmidth AusIndustry Superior Coal Sedgman Austrade Iluka Australian Coal Research Industry Capability Network Bemax Limited Small Business Connect Innovative Shipping Rio Tinto Regional Development Koolgarra Sands Anglo American Australia Arafura Resources TUNRA Bulk Solids EFIC Vector Australia Vale NSW Business Chambers Bluestone Tin Fortescue Metals Groups i3net BMA Roy Hill ICTI Gallagher Consulting Cliffs Minerals SDIG IFM Scantech International Cross Border Commissioner Sasol Coal Jord International NSW Department of Industry JVC Copper BHP Mitsubishi Alliance NSW Office of Environment & Metallicon New Hope Coal Heritage Dwarsrivier Peabody Hunter Valley Research Consolidated Tin Idemitsu Foundation Nagrom Australian Bauxite Limited Business Growth Centre BlueScope Arrium Mining and Materials Hunter Development Laing O’Rourke Schenck Process Australia Corporation Control Systems Australia WEARX Central Coast Development Nepean Group Aurecon Corporation Continental Conitech Ausenco Property Council of Australia Calibre Minerva Hatch Newcastle Port Corporation Conveyor Science Conveyor Dynamics Riverina International Trade Australian Energy Storage Muswellbrook Chamber of Network Alliance Commerce and Industry Australian Institute of Export GHD RDA Hunter Australian Industry Group Singleton Council Dantia Hunter Business Chamber Singleton Business Chamber Senvion Austmine Engineers Australia Evergen AGL Energy Australian Energy Institute Advisian GE Global Growth NERA TUNRA CSIRO Energy Advantage SME Hunternet UTS:ISF
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46 NSW Energy & Resources Knowledge Hub